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52 Unique Marriage Proposal Ideas for 2025
Here’s our list of our top 52 marriage proposal ideas. This curated list of ideas showcases only original and creative proposals. It was written by Afshin Shaddaie, who has been on the engagement scene for over 30 years.
Public Proposal Ideas
Public proposals are perfect for couples who thrive on excitement, spontaneity, and a little bit of spectacle. They’re a great choice if your partner enjoys being the center of attention and you want to create a moment that everyone around you will celebrate. However, it’s important to consider whether she’s comfortable with such a public display, as these types of proposals can feel overwhelming or impersonal for those who prefer intimate moments.
1. Photoshoot Proposal
The reason this proposal idea is so popular is that it solves the issue of capturing the proposal moment while you’re both dressed up without tipping her off. Casually mention wanting updated photos for your wall or to send to family members. Follow it up with an “amazing deal” you found on professional shots. Coordinate with the photographer to have them ready to capture your proposal. If you think she’d want friends or family present, arrange for them to surprise her afterward for a celebration.
- Pro Tip: Pick a scenic or sentimental location to make it even more special.
2. Concert Proposal
For music lovers, this proposal idea is both bold and memorable. Reach out to the band or the venue beforehand and arrange for them to call you on stage during the show. Propose in front of the crowd and bask in the cheers! This idea works best at smaller concerts or events where coordination is easier.
- Pro Tip: Make sure the proposal aligns with her comfort level regarding public attention.
3. Beach Proposal
Plan a relaxing beach day and prepare for the ultimate surprise. While she takes a walk or dips into the water, write “Marry Me?” in the sand in big, bold letters. When she returns, get down on one knee and propose with the ocean as your backdrop.
- Pro Tip: Arrange for a hidden photographer or videographer to capture her reaction. Bring champagne or her favorite drink for a post-proposal toast.
4. Hot Air Balloon Proposal
Take your love to new heights with this romantic and unique proposal. Book a hot air balloon ride and work with the operator to pause at the perfect scenic moment. Pull out the ring with the world stretching below you.
- Pro Tip: Bring a small champagne bottle and glasses for an airborne toast, and ensure she’s comfortable with heights beforehand.
5. Magician Proposal
Make the proposal magical—literally! Find a local illusionist or attend a magic show. Coordinate with the magician to involve you and your fiancée as audience volunteers for a trick. The finale should reveal the engagement ring, with you on one knee, as the audience erupts in applause.
- Pro Tip: Choose a magician with experience in handling customized tricks to ensure everything runs smoothly.
6. Trivia Night Proposal
If you and your fiancée enjoy game nights, incorporate this fun and lighthearted idea. Host a trivia night with friends, and for the final question, ask, “Will you marry me?” Tailor the night to include topics you both love to make it more personal.
- Pro Tip: Have someone ready to record the moment, and include a fun celebratory toast with your friends afterward.
7. Candlelit Path Proposal
Set up a romantic pathway of candles leading to a surprise setup. It could be in your backyard, a park, or even indoors. At the end of the path, have her favorite flowers, champagne, and the engagement ring waiting. Guide her along the path to the proposal spot for an unforgettable moment.
- Pro Tip: Use LED candles for safety and consider adding rose petals or fairy lights for an extra magical touch.
8. Family Gathering Proposal
If you both have close relationships with family, this proposal is heartwarming and inclusive. At a family gathering, express how much your family means to you and how you want her to officially join it. Propose as the family cheers and celebrates with you.
- Pro Tip: Coordinate with her family as well to ensure everyone feels included.
9. Scenic Hike Proposal
For couples who love the outdoors, this idea is a natural fit. Choose a picturesque hiking trail that ends with a breathtaking view or waterfall. Pack a picnic with her favorite snacks, and when you reach the destination, set up the proposal.
- Pro Tip: Bring a tripod or arrange for a hidden photographer to capture the moment. Check the weather beforehand and bring any essentials, like water or sunscreen.
10. Charades Proposal
Turn game night into a lifetime memory! During a round of charades, partner with her and act out “Will you marry me?” If she doesn’t guess immediately, it’ll make the moment even more fun and exciting as she pieces it together.
- Pro Tip: If game night is a regular thing, this will feel natural and low-pressure. Involve friends or family who know about the plan to keep the game lighthearted.
11. Winery Proposal
Suggest a romantic trip to a local winery and coordinate with the staff beforehand. Have a custom wine label created with a message like, “Will you marry me?” At the end of the tour, arrange for the staff to present the bottle during a scenic moment.
- Pro Tip: Choose a wine that will age well and order a few extra bottles for future anniversaries or special occasions.
12. Recreate Your First Date
Take a walk down memory lane by revisiting your first date location. Recreate the same activities you did that day to make it even more special. When the moment feels right, propose!
- Pro Tip: Add personal touches, like a memento from your first date or a handwritten note to reflect on how far you’ve come as a couple.
13. Starry Night Proposal
Plan a romantic stargazing evening in a quiet park or your backyard. Set up cozy blankets, LED fairy lights, and snacks. Use a telescope with a hidden note taped to the lens cap that says, “Will you marry me?” to pop the question.
- Pro Tip: Choose a night with clear skies, and bring a thermos of hot chocolate or her favorite drink to complete the experience.
14. Caricature Proposal
If you’re sightseeing, this is a cute and unexpected way to propose. Arrange with a caricature artist beforehand to draw an image of you on one knee with the words, “Will you marry me?” When they turn the picture around, be ready with the ring.
- Pro Tip: Plan this in an area where you casually “happen upon” the artist without raising suspicion.
15. Surprise Movie Trailer Proposal
Work with a local movie theater or set up a home theater experience to create a custom “movie trailer.” The trailer can showcase key moments from your relationship and end with the words, “Will you marry me?” Propose when the lights come on!
- Pro Tip: Coordinate with the theater staff or ensure the video quality is professional for maximum impact.
16. Treasure Hunt Proposal
Create a scavenger hunt with clues leading her to different meaningful locations. End at a spot where you’re waiting with the ring. Bonus points if family or friends join her for the final stop!
- Pro Tip: Make the locations meaningful, such as the place where you first met or had your first date, to add a personal touch.
17. Party Proposal
Plan a “surprise” party where she thinks the celebration is for someone else or even for you. During a party game (like charades or Wheel of Fortune), reveal the message, “Will you marry me?”
- Pro Tip: Work with friends and family to plan this carefully so she doesn’t suspect anything.
18. Graffiti Proposal
Hire a local graffiti artist to create a custom mural that incorporates your proposal message. Take her on a casual walk, and when you arrive at the mural, get down on one knee.
- Pro Tip: Add a can of spray paint so she can write “Yes!” for a fun and memorable touch.
19. Karaoke Proposal
Plan a karaoke night at home or at a local bar. Sing her favorite song but edit the lyrics to include your proposal. When you finish, propose as the crowd cheers you on.
- Pro Tip: If singing isn’t your strength, make it more personal by having a mutual friend help with the performance.
20. Graphic T-Shirt Proposal
Arrange with a custom T-shirt vendor to create two shirts—yours saying, “Will you marry me?” and hers saying, “I said yes!” Plan a casual outing where you “happen upon” the vendor and suggest making matching shirts.
- Pro Tip: The shirts make a fun keepsake you can keep forever.
21. Work Proposal
If she doesn’t hate her workplace, coordinate with her boss to set up a surprise meeting. When she arrives, you’ll be waiting with flowers and the ring instead of a client or HR rep.
- Pro Tip: Make sure her workplace culture and her boss are open to this idea to avoid discomfort.
22. Podcast Proposal
If she listens to a podcast regularly, reach out to the hosts to help you with the proposal. Tell her you were featured on an episode for something work-related. When you listen to the episode together, she’ll hear your proposal instead of your interview.
- Pro Tip: Smaller, niche podcasts are more likely to work with you and make it feel personal.
23. Airport Arrival Proposal
If she has an upcoming solo trip or you’re in a long-distance relationship, plan to meet her at the airport. Hold a name sign that says “Mrs. [Her Last Name]?” and propose as she approaches.
- Pro Tip: Have flowers or champagne ready to celebrate on the spot.
Private Proposals
Private proposals are ideal for couples who cherish intimate, meaningful moments and prefer to keep their emotions away from the spotlight. These proposals allow for a deeper connection, free from distractions, making them perfect for partners who value thoughtfulness and privacy. However, the absence of an audience means the moment relies entirely on personal effort and creativity, so it’s important to tailor it to what feels most special to your significant other.
24. Check Your Pockets Proposal
This proposal combines the classic dinner date with a private twist. Before heading out, place the ring in her jacket pocket. Just as you’re about to leave, ask her, “Do you have your keys, phone, etc.?” and suggest she check her pockets. When she discovers the ring, you’ll propose, and then you can head to dinner to celebrate.
- Pro Tip: Ensure her jacket or bag has a pocket big enough to securely hold the ring box to avoid accidental discovery.
25. Journal Proposal
If your fiancée loves journaling, this idea is perfect. Gift her a beautiful journal or planner with the first page reading, “Today, (your name) asked me to marry him. I said _______.” Hand her a pen to fill in the blank, then pull out the ring as she looks up.
- Pro Tip: Choose a high-quality journal or planner that matches her personal style for an added thoughtful touch.
26. Customized Perfume or Lipstick Proposal
Order a custom-engraved lipstick or perfume from a luxury brand she loves. Have the engraving say something like, “Will you marry me?” or “(Your names) Engagement” with the date. Present it as a thoughtful gift, and when she notices the engraving, have the ring ready.
- Pro Tip: Opt for refillable products so the memento can last forever without worrying about running out.
27. Personalized Drawing Artwork Proposal
Have a personalized artwork created, such as a sketch or painting of you proposing to her. Frame it and give it to her as a gift, saying it’s for the house. When she notices the proposal depicted in the artwork, get down on one knee with the ring.
- Pro Tip: Choose an art style and frame that complement her home décor so it can be displayed proudly.
28. Kitchen Surprise Proposal
Plan a cozy night cooking or baking together. Hide the ring in a decorative dish cover or keepsake recipe box, and present it at the end of the activity. When she opens it, be ready to propose with the ring.
- Pro Tip: Prepare one of her favorite dishes to make the experience even more personal and enjoyable.
29. Laptop Proposal
This idea works especially well if she’s mentioned needing a new laptop. Invite her over and set up a surprise where she finds a trail of rose petals leading to a laptop with a login screen that reads, “Click me.” When she clicks, the password hint says, “Will you marry me?” Be ready to propose as she turns around.
- Pro Tip: Customize the desktop background with a meaningful photo or message for an extra touch when she opens the laptop.
30. Build-a-Bear Proposal
Pick a stuffed animal she’ll love from Build-a-Bear and customize the voice message to say, “Will you marry me?” Gift her the bear and have her press the button to hear the proposal, then present the ring.
- Pro Tip: Choose an outfit or accessory for the bear that represents something special in your relationship.
31. Rom-Com Proposal
Plan a low-key night in with dinner and a rom-com. When a cliché proposal scene comes on, either mimic it with the ring or surprise her with a humorous, “How cheesy, right? By the way, will you marry me?” It’s a fun, unexpected way to pop the question.
- Pro Tip: Pick a rom-com you know she loves for a personal and enjoyable experience.
32. Short Story Proposal
If you enjoy writing, create a short story about the two of you and end it with the proposal scene. Ask her to read it and watch her expression as she gets to the end. As she finishes, pull out the ring to make the story come true.
- Pro Tip: Have the story professionally printed and bound as a keepsake she can treasure forever.
33. Custom Mug Proposal
Gift her a custom mug with “Marry me” printed on the bottom inside. Pair it with a new coffee maker for a cozy surprise. Wait until she finishes her drink to discover the proposal, then present the ring.
- Pro Tip: Include her favorite coffee or tea blend to make the gift even more meaningful.
34. Home Movie Proposal
Create a montage of your best moments together and set it to a romantic soundtrack. End the video with “Only the beginning… Will you marry me?” Present the ring as the video concludes for a heartfelt moment.
- Pro Tip: Include a mix of candid moments and milestone memories to evoke emotions and make it personal.
35. Photobook Proposal
Design a photobook of your memories together with captions for each page, like “Our first trip” or “Our best day.” On the final page, write, “The day we got engaged” and pull out the ring to create the moment.
- Pro Tip: Choose a high-quality photobook with elegant design options to make it a lasting keepsake.
36. Fridge Proposal
Set up magnetic letters inside the fridge to spell out, “Will you marry me?” Ask her to grab dessert from the fridge while you stand behind her with the ring, ready to pop the question.
- Pro Tip: Decorate the fridge or the area around it with small flowers or lights for a warm and romantic vibe.
37. Pair of Gloves Gift Proposal
For a wintertime proposal, gift her a pair of gloves with the ring hidden in the finger of the left glove. Encourage her to try them on to discover the ring and propose when she finds it.
- Pro Tip: Choose gloves that match her style or have a special touch, like her favorite color or luxurious fabric.
38. Candlelit Bath Proposal
Set up a relaxing bath for her with candles, rose petals, and her favorite music. When she’s fully relaxed, bring out the ring and say, “There’s only one thing that could make this moment better.” Propose as she smiles.
- Pro Tip: Include her favorite bath products or oils to make the setup feel extra special and pampering.
39. Memory Box Proposal
Create a memory box filled with mementos from your time together—photos, tickets, and personal notes. Go through the items with her and suggest adding one more: the engagement ring.
- Pro Tip: Use a beautifully crafted box that she can reuse as a keepsake for future memories.
40. Bonfire on the Beach Proposal
Take her to a beach for a sunset bonfire. As you toast marshmallows together, hand her a skewer with the ring on it instead of marshmallows and propose.
- Pro Tip: Pack her favorite snacks and drinks for the bonfire to make the evening feel personalized and cozy.
41. PowerPoint Proposal
For a fun and nerdy proposal, create a PowerPoint presentation listing the reasons she should marry you. End with “The final question: Will you marry me?” Pull out the ring as she laughs or cries.
- Pro Tip: Add photos and inside jokes to make the presentation personal and engaging.
42. Escape Room Proposal
Work with an escape room to customize the final clue to lead to a ring box. Solve the puzzle together, and when she opens the box, be ready to propose.
- Pro Tip: Try out the escape room beforehand to ensure the flow works smoothly and the proposal moment feels seamless.
43. Drone Proposal
Find a secluded outdoor spot and set up a drone to deliver the ring. Suggest a picnic or walk, and have the drone fly in at the perfect moment to surprise her with the ring.
- Pro Tip: Practice with the drone beforehand to avoid mishaps and ensure the delivery is flawless.
44. Cameo in Her Favorite Movie Proposal
Film a short video of yourself proposing and have it edited into her favorite romantic movie. Watch the movie together and propose when your cameo appears.
- Pro Tip: Make the video feel seamless by matching the tone and style of the movie scene.
45. Radio Station Proposal
Coordinate with a local radio station to play a meaningful song and announce your proposal. Be ready with the ring when she hears your message.
- Pro Tip: Time the announcement for a quiet, uninterrupted moment to ensure she catches the proposal live.
46. Game of Chess Proposal
If you both enjoy playing chess, integrate the proposal into the game. When you capture her queen, say, “I’ve taken your queen—how about I give you a new one?” and present the ring. Alternatively, if she captures yours, say, “I may have lost my queen, but I’ve got the real one right here,” and propose.
- Pro Tip: Use a custom chessboard or personalized pieces for a sentimental touch.
47. Monopoly Proposal
Turn a regular Monopoly game into a proposal moment. When you run out of money, instead of paying rent, pull out the ring and say, “I don’t have enough to pay, but how about this instead?”
- Pro Tip: Customize the Monopoly board with inside jokes or memories for a fun twist on a classic game.
48. Box-in-a-Box Proposal
Place the ring box inside progressively smaller boxes, each wrapped beautifully. Position yourself behind her as she opens the final box that reads, “Turn around.” When she does, you’ll be waiting with the ring.
- Pro Tip: Add notes or fun messages in each box to build anticipation and excitement.
49. Custom Jigsaw Puzzle Proposal
Create a custom jigsaw puzzle featuring a picture of you proposing with speech bubbles saying, “Will you marry me?” and “Yes!” Let her finish the puzzle and watch her reaction as the message becomes clear.
- Pro Tip: Frame the finished puzzle afterward as a keepsake of the moment.
50. Virtual Reality Proposal
Plan a VR experience where you visit a meaningful virtual location or create a custom environment. At the perfect moment, pull out the ring and propose in real life to make the virtual experience unforgettable.
- Pro Tip: Test the VR program beforehand to ensure smooth execution and timing.
51. Box of Chocolates Proposal
Customize a box of chocolates by having one chocolate hold the ring inside (sealed in protective plastic). Suggest trying each chocolate together, saving the special one for last. When she discovers the ring, propose!
- Pro Tip: Use a local chocolatier to personalize the box and ensure the ring presentation is safe and elegant.
52. Custom Reel Viewer Proposal
Create a custom reel viewer with photos of your memories together. The final slide should read, “Will you marry me?” Gift it to her and have the ring ready as she reaches the last slide.
- Pro Tip: Use high-quality photos and design to make the reel a fun keepsake.
What to Know Before You Plan Your Proposal
A couple of vital things to consider when planning your proposal.
1. Will your SO appreciate a public or private proposal?
This is crucial to work out before you choose how to propose, and it really comes down to how well you know your future (hopefully) wife. Some might absolutely love the idea of being surrounded by family and friends or attention from passerbys. For others, all they want is to share the experience with you alone, and anything that involves anyone other than the two of you will spoil the intimacy of the moment. So, give it some thought and choose carefully before you start planning.
One other thing to keep in mind is if you’re keeping it private but still want photos of the moment. You’ll need to do some strategic planning so that you have a camera ready to catch the moment without needing another person there.
2. Does she want to be ready for the proposal or caught off guard?
Again, this will vary greatly depending on personality type. For some, it’ll be really important that she’s all dressed up and looking her best with a photographer capturing the scene. If she generally enjoys the process of creating a perfect ensemble and getting ready for big occasions, or if she likes getting good photos for events, that might be a good indication that she’ll want to look the part when the proposal happens.
Additionally, here’s a detail that she might really care about, specifically because proposals usually involve a ring. If you know she likes having her nails done, she’ll likely not want to be trying the ring on for the first time and taking photos of it with chipped polish or undone nails.
That doesn’t mean it can’t be a surprise, but you’ll need to choose a setting where it would make sense that she’d be dressed up anyway, such as dinner at an upscale restaurant.
If your girlfriend tends to be low maintenance and prefers comfort and spontaneity, you can probably choose any setting, even if it means she’ll be in leggings and a t-shirt when you pop the question.
3. Does she want a classic or more out-of-the-box proposal?
There are a few elements to consider here that, once again, she’ll either find incredibly corny or be nothing less than what she expects for her proposal. We’re talking about things like getting down on one knee, already having the ring, giving her a bouquet of flowers, toasting with champagne, etc. The down-on-one-knee part, in particular, can really go either way. You’ve got staunch advocates and firm haters, so you really need to know what she’ll want. Talk to her close friends or sister to get a better sense, or pick a cheesy romantic comedy to watch with a classic proposal scene to get her reaction.
Remember that some women have been dreaming about the traditional proposal for years, and for others, it can come off as cliché and overdone. They’d much prefer a creative idea with thought put into it or something personalized for the two of you. So, think it over before deciding which elements to incorporate.
4. Does she want you to pick the ring or to choose one herself?
This one’s kind of a biggie because if your fiancée has a very particular taste, she’ll most likely not appreciate a ring that’s not her exact style. If you know that to be the case, you’ve got a few options.
Firstly, you can do some research to see if she has a Pinterest board or follows jewelers on Instagram. Try to get the best sense of what she’s looking for, and then find a jeweler who’ll work with you and has a solid return and exchange policy. Discuss with the jewelers beforehand and choose a piece you think she’ll like, but with the expectation that you’ll be back to the showroom to let her exchange for her exact preference. Then, once you propose, you can let her know that you picked something you think she’d like, but it’s just a placeholder, and you’re heading to the jewelers within a few days so she can choose herself.
Alternatively, you could plan your proposal around the actual jewelry showroom. So think of maybe asking her to accompany you for some fictitious errand or appointment. Then, when you get to the showroom or jewelry store, that’s where you propose.
Again, you’ll want to plan this carefully with a jeweler who can provide the right setting and experience (so not the Macy’s jewelry counter). Preferably, it would be a jeweler who isn’t in an actual storefront because that would be a dead giveaway, but if that is the case, it can still work. You’ll need to come up with a valid excuse, like getting your watch battery replaced.
Lastly, you could propose without the ring, but if you do, at least get an empty box as a placeholder.
Talk to an Engagement Ring Expert
So, now that you’ve hopefully chosen a direction for your marriage proposal, are you ready to look for a ring? Contact one of our expert jewelers here at Estate Diamond Jewelry. We’ll help you find a ring that perfectly fits your style and budget. We can also help you plan an NYC proposal from our 5th Ave. showroom.
